I can't find any relatable media

[kunikuzushi]

I fail to relate to any media about depression and suicide because it always has the undertone that someone needs to be "saved" and that life is inherently valuable. I also don't like media where if someone is depressed, it's something that needs to be fixed. Or if someone commits suicide, it's seen as tragic. I hate that there's almost no media that explores this meaningless existence and how unbearable it is and how it makes sense that we're miserable because everything is meaningless. The only thing I can find and that comforts me are metal albums. But I want something I can watch.

 

[luma]

I know exactly what you mean. I LOVE film, and I too wish there were more movies that challenge society's perception of suicide. Specifically, I wish there were more comedies about suicide, because ironically, I think something like that would heal me. Unfortunately, a movie like that would probably be labeled as "edgy", "insensitive", and/or "encouraging suicide" (which I do understand, to an extent), so a lot of filmmakers avoid framing suicide as anything other than tragic and avoidable.

 

[DaisiesRegrets]

Not necessarily something to watch but Goodnight Punpun is a good read. It's very heavy and deals with a lot of themes of depression, childhood trauma, loneliness and isolation. Kokoro and No Longer Human are also good reads which deal with similar themes. I can't think of much too watch however sadly. Welcome to the NHK deals with similar themes but it's not as bleak as the previous suggestions. Trainspotting is a movie I adore which doesn't really deal with themes of suicide or loneliness, however it's pure cynicism is something which I personally really enjoy. These are just some suggestions, toss them aside if you want.

 

[kunikuzushi]

I know exactly what you mean. I LOVE film, and I too wish there were more movies that challenge society's perception of suicide. Specifically, I wish there were more comedies about suicide, because ironically, I think something like that would heal me. Unfortunately, a movie like that would probably be labeled as "edgy", "insensitive", and/or "encouraging suicide" (which I do understand, to an extent), so a lot of filmmakers avoid framing suicide as anything other than tragic and avoidable.

I love when suicide is portrayed lightheartedly. I would love a comedy about suicide. I guess we're stuck in a world right now where that's seen as unacceptable. I would make my own media but I'm nearing the end of my life and have no energy for that. But honestly I might.

Not necessarily something to watch but Goodnight Punpun is a good read. It's very heavy and deals with a lot of themes of depression, childhood trauma, loneliness and isolation. Kokoro and No Longer Human are also good reads which deal with similar themes. I can't think of much too watch however sadly. Welcome to the NHK deals with similar themes but it's not as bleak as the previous suggestions. Trainspotting is a movie I adore which doesn't really deal with themes of suicide or loneliness, however it's pure cynicism is something which I personally really enjoy. These are just some suggestions, toss them aside if you want.

I forgot to mention I don't enjoy heavy serious things. It's hard to explain but maybe I love the meaninglessness of life portrayed in a lighthearted way. I've read some of Goodnight punpun and found it not to match how I feel. I absolutely love No Longer Human, but now I'm at the point where I stay away from things too serious like that. And Welcome to the NHK is on my list of things to watch! I will definitely watch Trainspotting. Thank you so much for the recommendations.

 

[woofwag]

Been a long time since I've seen it so I can't remember exactly how preachy it was about life, but I do remember Bojack Horseman having some great explorations of suicide, depression, loneliness, and trauma. Bojack attempts suicide and the show doesn't coddle him about it or pretend like it was a miracle or some amazing thing that he lived through it. It recognizes his sadness and his mistakes and doesn't try to portray him as a genuinely good guy who deserves to live. At least from what I remember. It was a very powerful show and affected me a lot when I watched it. I recommend it even if I don't remember it perfectly (I have a very bad memory).

 

[kunikuzushi]

Been a long time since I've seen it so I can't remember exactly how preachy it was about life, but I do remember Bojack Horseman having some great explorations of suicide, depression, loneliness, and trauma. Bojack attempts suicide and the show doesn't coddle him about it or pretend like it was a miracle or some amazing thing that he lived through it. It recognizes his sadness and his mistakes and doesn't try to portray him as a genuinely good guy who deserves to live. At least from what I remember. It was a very powerful show and affected me a lot when I watched it. I recommend it even if I don't remember it perfectly (I have a very bad memory).

Oh thank you for reminding me I've been wanting to watch this. I definitely will now because of your recommendation.

 

[Crescendo]

From what I've personally watched, the piece of media that I think most closely fits this criteria is True Detective S1 - specifically through Rust Cohle's character. There are themes of philosophical pessimism and existential dread, with some mention of suicide, but most notably it frames death as a release from the futility of life. It's also a highly rated and critically acclaimed show in general, and definitely worth watching imo if you haven't seen it.